How Solar Energy is Implemented in Agriculture

Solar energy can be used in agriculture in various ways, including cost savings, increased self-sufficiency, and pollution reduction.

FREMONT, CA: Solar energy, in its infancy, was primarily used by powerhouses and businesses located far from a power grid. Solar energy has expanded into new areas and applications over time. Unlike fossil-fueled energy sources such as coal, gas, and petroleum, solar energy is not subject to depletion. Transitioning from non-renewable to renewable energy sources has brought up a plethora of opportunities. Additionally, it has increased demand for solar panel installations, lowering the cost. Solar energy has achieved enormous advancements in everyday life, agriculture, and transportation. While solar energy has historically been used to power space heating and lighting, it has grown to encompass sun drying, solar cooling and refrigeration, and cooking.

Agriculture and Solar Energy

Rural communities are reliant on agriculture and require access to renewable energy sources to maintain a sustainable lifestyle. Agricultural operations, such as irrigation, poultry lighting, and pest control do not require a large energy output, and solar photovoltaic cells are a well-established energy source. Since farming and agriculture consume a significant amount of electricity for irrigation, plowing, greenhouses, heating, and cooling livestock housing, and dairy activities, utility bills can quickly deplete the budget. However, while the initial cost of solar energy may be costly, farmers will benefit in the long run. Solar drying, water pumping, and food preservation are just a few areas the agricultural industry might benefit from.

Drying: Historically, agricultural items such as meat, vegetables, and fruits were dried in the open air, resulting in a higher incidence of perishables loss. Rather than that, employing solar thermal energy after a harvest allows for a more extended storage period because it is faster and is not affected by natural elements. Additionally, farmers can ship them in advance if markets are not already saturated. Solar dryers come in a variety of configurations, including direct, indirect, and hybrid. Direct drying is accomplished with a solar box dryer, indirect drying is accomplished with a solar cabinet dryer, and mixed or hybrid drying is accomplished with a hybrid solar/biomass cabinet dryer.

Refrigeration: Refrigeration is required for processing and preserving agricultural food products, which is an energy-intensive process. Solar energy is more viable for cooling, particularly in remote locations with limited or no access to a power grid. Solar energy can be used successfully for space cooling or a mix of heating and cooling, hence prolonging the shelf life of farm products.

Pumps for Water: Solar energy can be used for small-scale farming and irrigation on a larger scale. Solar water pump systems might include an inverter and energy storage to provide a constant water supply every 24 hours. Solar water pumps can also maintain a consistent supply of water for livestock and everyday consumption.

To summarize, solar energy and its applications continue to evolve. With new and upgraded technology, solar energy appears to be the most rational, financially practical, and environmentally friendly answer.

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Agri Business Review